# Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If your business is still using **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017**, you’re working with software that is **no longer supported by Intuit**. This means **no security updates, no payroll services, and no technical support**, which can seriously affect your accounting operations and data security.
## **Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020**
Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020** helps restore stability, improves performance, and ensures compatibility with modern Windows systems. This guide explains **why the upgrade matters, how to do it safely, and what to expect after upgrading**.

## What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade from QuickBooks Pro 2017?

Continuing with QuickBooks Pro 2017 can result in:

* ❌ Payroll and tax table updates stopped
* ❌ Online banking and payment services disabled
* ❌ Increased risk of data corruption
* ❌ Frequent crashes after Windows updates
* ❌ No Intuit support for errors or file issues

**Expert Insight:**
QuickBooks experts recommend upgrading versions older than three years to maintain data integrity and service continuity.

## Benefits of Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020

Upgrading from Pro 2017 to **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020** provides important benefits:

* ✅ Faster performance and improved responsiveness
* ✅ Better compatibility with Windows 10 (64-bit)
* ✅ Enhanced reporting and search functionality
* ✅ Reduced crashes and company file errors
* ✅ More stable single-user and multi-user mode

Although newer versions are available today, 2020 remains a **significant upgrade from 2017**.

## Can You Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2017 to 2020 for Free?

### Is a Free Upgrade Available?

**No.**

QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 requires:

* A valid **license and product number**
* A paid purchase unless you already own Pro 2020

### What Is Free?

* Company file conversion from 2017 to 2020
* Data migration during the upgrade process

> **Important:**
> The **software itself requires a license**, but **your data upgrade is free**.

## What to Do Before Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017?

### 1. Check System Requirements

Ensure your system meets minimum requirements:

* Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 (64-bit recommended)
* Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
* 2.5 GB free disk space
* Stable internet connection

### 2. Back Up Your Company File (Critical Step)

1. Open **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017**
2. Go to **File > Back Up Company > Create Local Backup**
3. Save the backup to an external drive or secure cloud storage

### 3. Update QuickBooks Pro 2017

* Click **Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop**
* Install the latest updates before upgrading

## How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020?

### Step 1: Purchase QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020

Choose the Pro edition if your business needs basic accounting features like invoicing, expenses, and standard reports.

### Step 2: Download and Install QuickBooks Pro 2020

1. Download the installer
2. Right-click and select **Run as Administrator**
3. Follow on-screen installation instructions

### Step 3: Open and Upgrade Your Company File

1. Launch **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020**
2. Go to **File > Open or Restore Company**
3. Select your **QuickBooks Pro 2017 company file**

QuickBooks will **automatically convert your file to the 2020 format**.

### Step 4: Verify and Rebuild Data

* Go to **File > Utilities > Verify Data**
* If errors appear, select **Rebuild Data**

## Common Upgrade Issues and How to Fix Them

### Upgrade Freezes or Fails

**Fix:**

* Temporarily disable antivirus software
* Install QuickBooks using Selective Startup mode

### Company File Won’t Open After Upgrade

**Fix:**

* Restore a verified backup
* Run QuickBooks File Doctor

### Multi-User Mode Errors

**Fix:**

* Update Database Server Manager
* Reconfigure firewall and hosting settings

## Real Example: Pro 2017 to Pro 2020 Upgrade

**Scenario:**
A small consulting firm using QuickBooks Pro 2017 experienced slow performance and frequent crashes.

**Solution:**

* Backed up company data
* Installed QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020
* Verified and rebuilt the company file

**Results:**

* Improved system stability
* Faster reporting and navigation
* Reduced error messages

## Best Practices for a Smooth QuickBooks Upgrade

* ✔ Upgrade on a **local workstation first**
* ✔ Keep **multiple backups** before and after upgrade
* ✔ Avoid upgrading over a network
* ✔ Test invoices, reports, and payroll features
* ✔ Update all computers in multi-user environments

### Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2017 to 2020 with Confidence

📞 **Call Now: 866-593-4750**

> Certified QuickBooks experts ensure a **secure, fast, and error-free upgrade**.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can I upgrade directly from QuickBooks Pro 2017 to 2020?

Yes. Direct upgrades are supported, and your company file will convert automatically.

### Will upgrading delete my data?

No, as long as you create a backup before starting.

### How long does the upgrade process take?

* Small files: 20–30 minutes
* Large files: 1–2 hours

### Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks Pro 2017?

No. You can keep older versions installed, but only one version should host multi-user mode.

### Is QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 still supported?

Support depends on Intuit’s lifecycle policy, but it is significantly more stable than 2017.

## Conclusion

Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020** is an important step toward restoring performance, improving compatibility, and reducing data risks. Delaying the upgrade can lead to **errors, crashes, and service interruptions**.

📞 **Call QuickBooks Upgrade Specialists Today: 866-593-4750**

> Upgrade confidently and keep your accounting system running smoothly.